String Theory, which is stronger, Caltech or Stanford?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the comparison between Caltech and Stanford for pursuing a PhD in high energy theory, specifically in string theory and formal field theories. While Stanford has a larger number of professors in high energy theory, many focus on phenomenology rather than the mathematical aspects emphasized by Caltech faculty such as S. Gukov and A. Kapustin. Financial considerations include Stanford's TA+RA position with a salary of $36K versus Caltech's fellowship of $32K, though the cost of living in the San Francisco Bay area is notably higher than in Pasadena.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of string theory and formal field theories
  • Familiarity with high energy theoretical physics
  • Knowledge of graduate school funding structures (TA, RA, fellowships)
  • Awareness of cost of living differences in California regions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the faculty and their research areas at Caltech and Stanford
  • Investigate the implications of living costs in the San Francisco Bay area versus Pasadena
  • Explore the differences between phenomenology and mathematical approaches in high energy theory
  • Learn about the application process and requirements for PhD programs in physics
USEFUL FOR

Prospective PhD students in physics, particularly those interested in string theory and formal field theories, as well as individuals evaluating graduate school options in high energy theory.

LiXinghe
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Hello everyone. I am an international student from China. Currently I received offers of a PhD position from both Caltech and Stanford. I applied for Hep-th and my main interests are formal field theories and string theory.

I know both Caltech and Stanford are great schools in physics. And it seems that Stanford has more professors in high energy theory than Caltech. However when I look more carefully, most of the professors at Stanford focus on phenomenology. And Caltech faculties (like S.Gukov, A.Kapustin) focus more on the mathematical aspects. Then it's hard for me to decide which graduate school to go.

BTW: Stanford offers me TA+RA position with salary 36K. Caltech offers me a fellowship of 32K. But financial reasons aren't important, are they?
 
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LiXinghe said:
Stanford offers me TA+RA position with salary 36K. Caltech offers me a fellowship of 32K.

You need to take the cost of living into account. The San Francisco Bay area (Stanford) is notoriously very expensive. The area near Caltech (Pasadena / Los Angeles) is still expensive, but maybe somewhat less so.
 

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